1:00 p.m.

Keynote: AI in Manufacturing—Unlocking Efficiency and Innovation

This presentation discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) is impacting the manufacturing industry by solving important challenges and improving efficiency and innovation. It begins by highlighting AI’s broad impact across sectors, then focuses in on manufacturing’s specific pain points—labor shortages, supply-chain instability and quality control.

The presentation delineates fundamental AI technologies such as machine learning, computer vision, predictive analytics and industrial automation. It further demonstrates how these technologies integrate with ERP, MES and IoT systems to facilitate more intelligent operations. Real-world examples of how these applications are being used will be discussed, including predictive maintenance, quality control, demand forecasting and process optimization. And, case studies will showcase measurable benefits such as cost savings and productivity gains.

During this presentation the common misconceptions about AI will be discussed, items such as its complexity, its threat to jobs or its exclusivity to large corporations, as well as concerns associated with security. In addition, guidance will be provided on how manufacturers can begin their AI journey, from assessing readiness to piloting projects and effectively managing costs.

1:45 p.m.

Selecting the Right ERP Software for Your Manufacturing Organization

Coming Soon

2:45 p.m.

Using ERP Software to Manage the Office

Before automation can drive efficiency, the back-office needs structure, clarity and control. In this session, we’ll explore the foundational ERP elements that too many manufacturers overlook—including item data and production details, costing structures and process standards. Attendees will learn why strengthening these areas is critical to automating workflows, improving reporting accuracy and creating a more agile operation—and how small improvements can unlock outsized results.

We’ll then shift gears to examine automation from a maturity perspective. What’s possible now, and what’s next? Starting with basic workflow automation and moving through to predictive systems, we’ll break down each level with real-world examples specific to the metal forming industry.

Designed for leaders and practitioners alike, this talk will leave you with a clear sense of where your organization stands today and what’s required to move forward. Whether you’re working to get better control of your ERP environment or looking to build momentum with automation, this session will spark ideas, align priorities and offer a practical roadmap to a more efficient, more connected back office.

3:30 p.m.

AI Strategy and Application Across Sales, Marketing and Business Analysis

This session explores how metal formers and fabricators can use artificial intelligence (AI) to build a scalable growth strategy that enhances existing sales, marketing and business-analytics efforts.

Part one of the presentation focuses on creating the framework necessary to identify and assess specific opportunities for AI implementation. We will evaluate potential AI use cases across the sales cycle, from intelligent lead generation and account-based marketing to enhanced customer engagement and demand forecasting. By analyzing vast amounts of customer and market data, AI can segment audiences, identify key trends and create outreach that resonates with specific customer needs and behaviors. AI also can automate lead scoring to prioritize target accounts and enhance customer-relationship management, leading to higher conversion rates and better sales performance.

Part two explores how to use AI to leverage data and enhance decision-making across your operations. Attendees will learn tactics to measure the success of an AI project by defining the right key performance indicators and analyzing key data points to predict customer behavior, inventory needs, market shifts and production demand.

Ultimately, adopting AI across sales, marketing and analysis helps metal formers and fabricators drive growth by improving efficiency, enabling smarter decision-making and enhancing customer engagement. These tools will allow you to pinpoint the right AI opportunities at the right time to facilitate a sustainable growth model.

4:30 p.m.

Data Gathering on the Floor: How to Select the Right Sensor for the Job

Coming Soon

6:00 p.m.

Networking Reception

Coming Soon

8:30 a.m.

ERP Boot Camp

Coming Soon